Vice-President Vance Questioned Strike on Houthis in Leaked Messages

A major security breach has rocked Washington, revealing confidential discussions among top officials in the Trump administration about military action in Yemen. The leak originated from a private Signal chat group, reportedly including Vice-President JD Vance, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.

Journalist Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic unexpectedly gained access to the group, where discussions centred on launching airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi forces. Goldberg claimed to have seen details of the planned attack, including targets and timing, hours before the operation took place.

Vance was reportedly sceptical about the strike, arguing that protecting shipping routes in the Suez Canal primarily benefited Europe rather than the US. He expressed concerns about a potential rise in oil prices and suggested delaying the attack. However, he ultimately agreed to support the decision.

Messages in the group also revealed frustration with European nations, with Hegseth condemning what he called their reliance on US military support. Another official suggested the US should demand economic compensation from Europe and Egypt for securing navigation routes.

After the airstrikes were executed, officials in the chat exchanged celebratory emojis, including American flags and prayers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles reportedly sent messages of support.

The incident has raised alarms over national security, with Democrats demanding an investigation into how a journalist was added to such a sensitive discussion. Trump has downplayed the controversy, stating he was unaware of the situation, while Hegseth insisted that no classified information was shared.